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How To Choose

Choosing Home Lift and Wheelchair Ramp Companies in San Francisco

Getting in and out of your home or accessing other types of buildings is a task that many may take for granted. However, many people use wheelchair ramps because their legs don’t operate as they should. Wheelchair ramps are inclining planes that help people who use wheelchairs to access their homes or other buildings. The slope of these ramps is important because certain angles are difficult to maneuver from a wheelchair. Wheelchair ramps take this into consideration in their design.

Along the same lines, stairlifts have been nothing short of a miracle for quite some time for individuals who have mobility issues. For people who have difficulty getting around the house, stairlifts are a much more practical and cost-effective solution to, for example, home adaptations. Thanks to stairlifts, the elderly and disabled can stay in their own homes where the surroundings are familiar.

Home lifts and ramps companies in San Francisco, including the larger neighborhoods and surrounding areas of Sunset District, Richmond District, Mission District, Tenderloin District, and Bernal Heights, install, repair and maintain a variety of accessibility equipment for clients throughout the Greater Bay Area. Its products include stair, vertical platform and patient transfer lifts, overhead track systems, ramps, and more.

How to Find a Good Home Lifts and Ramps Company that is Diamond Certified in San Francisco

Buying a home stair lift or ramp in San Francisco is a major purchase so you don’t want to hurry into it. Take the time to do the following:

Make sure a stair lift or ramp is the right choice for you. Research the pros and cons of residential care, employing home care, or moving to a single storey property first.

Talk to others who own a stair lift in order to get feedback.

Visit the supplier showrooms and schedule an appointment for a home visit.

Ask for a written estimate that includes all installation costs. Then compare the details across from each company.

Make sure to get a brochure from each company that has a reputation for safety and reliability so that you can learn more about the product.

More Information About Home Lifts and Ramps Company in Solano County

When choosing between home lifts and ramps companies in San Francisco, including the larger neighborhoods of Sunset District, Richmond District, Mission District, Tenderloin District, and Bernal Heights, there are more facts to consider than simply price. Keep the following factors in mind:

Make sure that a home lift system has a smooth ride. Good quality models glide without any friction.

Take note regarding the warranty period for the chair lifts. A 12 month warranty should be a minimum.

Chair lifts have weight limits. Be sure to ask about the weight limit of the chair lift you are considering purchasing.

Pay attention to whether there is a buy back scheme should the user pass away within a short time of purchasing a chair lift.

Because installation can vary from 24 hours to several weeks, make sure you question the company of choice regarding when the chair lift can be installed.

Make sure to pay attention to the service and support that is available after installation.

If there is a power outage, be sure to ask if the stair lift will continue to operate.

Stair lifts: Curved or Straight?

There are two main types of stairlifts: straight and curved. Straight stairlifts are for stairs that have no bends or half-landings. They are the least expensive of the two types of lifts. However, if your stairs have any kind of bend, corner, or half-landing, you’ll need a curved stairlift. This means that your stairlift will need to be custom-built for your staircase. It also means that once purchased, you will not be able to return it to the factory.

If you would like to stick to a straight lift but have a curved staircase, there is a slightly cheaper option. Two or more runs are installed with a bridging platform. The drawback to this setup is that it means having two lifts which means paying twice. It could also mean more maintenance costs as you will have the upkeep of two motors.

Easy on the Budget Options

Stair lifts that are made to order vary in price. The more complicated the stairs, the more costly the cost of the chair lift. But if your budget is tight, consider the following ideas to add up the savings:

Reconditioned Stair Lifts

A reconditioned stairlift is another option to think about. Reconditioned stairlifts have been previously owned by someone else and then refurbished. They are practically as good as new and will usually give many years of service.

When you purchase a reconditioned stairlift, most of the lift is brand new. You will get a new seat, new rail, and a reconditioned engine which should be good for a few years. Typically the cost of a reconditioned stairlift will be approximately one-third of the price of a new stairlift.

Negotiate

Don’t be scared to ask the chair lift company to negotiate their price. Most mobility wheel chair companies want your business. A rule of thumb is plus or minus 10% of the initial price quote.

Rent

Many high quality companies offer a rental program. This is a perfect program for the elderly, especially those who rely on a monthly pension. There is usually an initial installation and set-up fee, but then you can rent a chair lift from as little as $90 per month.

You are the customer. If your goal is to choose a home lift and ramp company that will deliver high customer satisfaction and quality, you’ll feel confident in choosing a Diamond Certified home lifts and ramps contractor. Each has been rated Highest in Quality in the most accurate ratings process anywhere. And you’re always backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. Here’s why the Diamond Certified ratings and certification process will help you find a top-rated home ramp and lift company and is unparalleled in its accuracy, rigor and usefulness:

1) Accuracy: All research is performed by live telephone interviews that verify only real customers are surveyed, so you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews.

2) Statistical Reliability: A large random sample of past customers is surveyed on an ongoing basis so the research results you see truly reflect a Diamond Certified company’s top-rated status.

3) Full Disclosure: By clicking the name of a company above you’ll see the exact rating results in charts and read verbatim survey responses as well as researched articles on each qualified company.

4) Guaranteed: Your purchase is backed up with mediation and the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you can choose with confidence.

Click on the name of a Diamond Certified company above to read ratings results, researched articles and verbatim customer survey responses to help you make an informed decision.

More than 200,000 customers of local companies have been interviewed in live telephone calls, and only companies that score Highest in Quality in customer satisfaction–a 90+ on a 100 scale–as well as pass all of the credential-based ratings earn Diamond Certified. By requiring such a high score to qualify, the Diamond Certified program eliminates mediocre and poorly performing companies. Read detailed information about the ratings and certification process.

Know What You Want

Researching and Knowing What You Want Before Hiring a Home Lifts and Ramps Company in San Francisco

Many facts should be thought about before making a final choice in regards to a home lifts and ramps company in San Francisco that will meet your needs the most successfully. Write down everything that you’re wanting before you begin your research. Consider the following questions before making your final selection of a home lifts and ramps company.

Do I want a Diamond Certified company that is rated best in quality and backed by the Diamond Certified Guarantee?

What is my budget?

What personal and professional characteristics would I like my San Francisco home lifts and ramps company to have? (These may include good communication skills, honesty, reliability, cleanliness, etc.)

What To Ask References

Questions for References of Home Lifts and Ramps Companies in San Francisco

It’s best to find a Diamond Certified home lifts and ramps company in San Francisco, including the larger neighborhoods of Sunset District, Richmond District, Mission District, Tenderloin District, and Bernal Heights, because all certified companies have passed an in-depth ratings process that most other companies can’t pass. If you want quality from a home lifts and ramps company in San Francisco and the greater Bay Area, you can have confidence choosing a Diamond Certified company. Diamond Certified reports are available online for all certified companies. And you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews. That’s because all research is performed in live telephone interviews of actual customers.

If you can’t find a Diamond Certified home lifts and ramps company within close proximity, you’ll have to do some research on your own. If you do, it’s wise to phone some references provided by your home lifts and ramps company. Keep in mind, though, that references provided to you by the home lifts and ramps company are not equal in value to the large random sample of customers surveyed during the Diamond Certified ratings process. That’s because references given to customers from companies are cherry-picked instead of randomly selected from all their customers. So the contractors will likely give you a few customers to call that they know are satisfied.

If you do phone references on your own, be sure to specifically ask for a list of the company’s 10 most recent customers. This will help avoid them giving you the names of only customers they know were satisfied.

Were you satisfied with the services from (home lifts and ramps company name)?

Did the installer show up on time?

Did they finish the job in a timely manner?

What type of chair lift or ramp did you buy from the company?

If you need a new home lift or ramp in the future, will you consider hiring this home lifts and ramps company again?

Would you recommend this home lifts and ramps company to your friends and family?

Review Your Options

Finding and Hiring the Best Home Lifts and Ramps Companies in San Francisco

The Diamond Certified symbol has been awarded to companies that scored Highest in Quality in an accurate ratings process.

Your selection of a home lifts and ramps company in San Francisco, including the smaller neighborhoods of Cow Hollow, Diamond Heights, Glen Park, Hunters Point, and Noe Valley, is a very important decision for you and your family. So before deciding on the best home lifts and ramps company for you, it’s important to consider the following questions.

Do I need a straight lift or will I need a more expensive, custom made curved chair lift?

Do I need a permanent ramp or am I interested in one that I can move around the house as needed?

Some lift chairs have special features that are built into the chair such as heat and massage. Is this a feature that I am interested in?

What height of chair do I need? This is very important because the distance that the chair lifts off the ground is based on the height of the intended user.

What type of fabric, design and style am I interested in for my chair? The breathability of a fabric is an important consideration in order to prevent the fabric from becoming hot and sticky.

Do I have any special needs that I need to consider in regards to the type of chair I purchase? For example, removable armrests that allow for easier transfers, or wall hugger lift chairs which can be closed very closely to the wall.

How To Work With

How to Benefit the Most from a Home Lifts and Ramps Company Contract in San Francisco

Now that you’ve located and chosen a local home lifts and ramps company that meets all your requirements, it’s the perfect time to ask for a written contract. This contract should include written details on the price, quality and materials to be used, as well as the job start date and intended completion date.

Before you sign the contract, read and know for sure that you understand all the terms and limitations. The contract you sign is binding, and should protect your property and your interests, as well as those of your contractor. For this reason, you should never sign a blank or incomplete estimate.

When signing the contract, be sure to note in writing special requests or verbal agreements. This will protect you and ensure you get the services you have agreed on. Along with end dates and any special instructions, these add-ons may also include related issues that aren’t always covered by a standard contract. For example, regardless of how careful your contractor promises to be, damage can unexpectedly occur when putting in a chair lift or ramp.

By being proactive, you can protect your property. Before the work starts, schedule a walk through with the company supervisor and conduct a pre-work inspection of your property. List or photograph your hallway or area where the ramp or lift will be installed and talk with a company representative about reasonable expectations for protecting your home during the installation job. When you’ve reached an agreement, both you and the contractor should sign and date the document. When the work is complete, do a final inspection together and verify that your expectations were met.

Committing to a San Francisco Home Lifts and Ramps Company by Signing a Contract
When you’re content with the information your San Francisco home lifts and ramps company has provided you, sign the estimate and service agreement. Be sure that the home lifts and ramps company has a phone number where they can reach you at all times.

If the actual costs exceed the amount agreed upon on your estimate, make sure that the home lifts and ramps company representative gets your final approval before moving ahead with installing the chair lift or ramp. Your approval must be noted on the estimate and the invoice.

Be a Good Customer

How to Be a Successful and First Rate San Francisco Home Lifts and Ramps Company Customer

It's the home lifts and ramps company’s responsibility to install quality home lifts and ramps using the best possible installation techniques. But you play a big role in the success of your home lifts and ramps company, too. Here are a few simple steps you can take to be a good customer when hiring an San Francisco home lifts and ramps company.

Before you hire a home lifts and ramps company in San Francisco, including the larger neighborhoods of Excelsior, Pacific Heights, Nob Hill, North Beach, and Bayview District, restate your expectations and goals, and reiterate to the home lifts and ramps company representative your understanding of the agreement. Most problems with local home lifts and ramps companies occur because of a breakdown in communication. By being clear about your expectations and theirs, you can avoid most conflicts.

Pay for the home lifts and ramps company’s work promptly.

Be sure your service representative has a phone number where they can reach you at all times while they’re installing a home lift or ramp. The work will move along more smoothly if your home lifts and ramps company can reach you for any necessary updates, questions or work authorizations.

When your contractor contacts you, return calls as soon as possible to keep the installation of a home lift or ramp on schedule.

Ask your home lifts and ramps company if you should call to check on the progress or if he will call you with updates.

Be honest and candid with the home lifts and ramps company. Tell them what you want, the long-term outcome you’re expecting and specific ways they can satisfy your expectations.

Remember, a friendly smile goes a long way!

Why would you want to be a good customer? Home lifts and ramps companies in San Francisco appreciate customers who are straightforward, truthful and easy to work with. Your good customer behavior sets the tone from your end and creates an environment conducive to a good relationship. Things may very well go smoother and any problems may be more easily resolved.

Top 10 Requests

Top Service Requests from Local Home Lifts and Ramps Companies

Home lifts and ramps companies in San Francisco, including the larger neighborhoods Sunset District, Richmond District, Mission District, Tenderloin District, and Bernal Heights provide all types of lifts and ramps. Following is a list of the most popular requests.

Modular ramps
Modular ramps are permanent and made of aluminum. Because they don’t decay, they last a very long time. Though they are permanent, they can be moved. They come with handrails and are quick to install.

Threshold Ramps
Threshold ramps create a “bridge” over a threshold for a wheelchair to roll over. A common threshold would be a door step that gets you from outside of a building to inside, or a door frame. Threshold ramps come in many different sizes and are constructed from a variety of different materials, including fiberglass and aluminum.

Wooden ramps
Wooden ramps are the old fashioned wheelchair ramps. They are permanent and difficult to move without damaging them. Though they don’t always come with handrails, handrails or edge barriers should always be installed.

Portable ramps
Portable ramps can be folded and taken with you. These types of ramps are typically used to overcome small hurdles such as a couple of entry stairs. Built to last, these ramps make going to new places much easier.

Vehicle ramps
Vehicle ramps make entering or exiting a vehicle much easier. They are installed on the side or back of a large vehicle such as a van.

Wheelchair ramps
The American With Disabilities Act passed in 1990, requiring wheelchair ramps for people with disabilities in buildings and businesses in order to accommodate people who can’t walk.

Sit-to-stand lifts
Sit-to-stand lifts are designed to help patients who are weaker or lack muscle control to rise to a standing position from a bed, chair, etc. Straps, vests or belts are positioned around the patient’s back and then tightened to gradually move the patient’s body into a standing position.

Vertical platforms
Vertical platforms are a mechanical device and used for lifting people and wheelchairs up and down stairs. A rail is mounted to the treads of the stairs and then a platform is attached to the rail. A person sits on a wheelchair or stands on the platform and is then lifted as the platform moves along the rail.

Chair lifts
Chair lifts are a mechanical device used for lifting people up and down stairs. A rail is mounted to the treads of the stairs and then a chair is attached to the rail. A person sits on the chair and is then lifted as the chair moves along the rail.

Patient transfer lifts
Patient transfer lifts are designed for heavy patients who need to be transferred from one location to another, such as a chair to a bed. The patient transfer lift, also known as a sling lift, reduces the chance of injury to the caretaker while lifting the patient. It also reduces the number of nursing staff required to move patients.

Top 10 Brand Requests

Many companies are on the market for lifts and ramps. Following is a list of popular home lifts and ramps companies that have had great success and have a good reputation.

Glossary Of Terms

Glossary of Terms for Wheelchair Ramp and Home Stair Lift Users

Below are key home lifts and ramps company terms and descriptions that will help you navigate your way through your home lift or ramp purchase and installation from beginning to end.

ascension portable wheelchair lift
Ascension portable wheelchair lifts are vertical platforms used for lifting people and wheelchairs up and down stairs. A rail is mounted to the treads of the stairs and then a platform is attached to the rail. A person sits on a wheelchair or stands on the platform and is then lifted as the platform moves along the rail.

curved stair lifts
A curved stair lift is a custom-built stair lift designed for curved staircases. If the physical layout of your staircase includes a sweeping, spiral, or multiple places where the staircases changes direction, you will be required to install a curved stair chair lift.

custom disabled ramps
Custom disabled ramps are ramps built for the physically challenged that allow them to access parts of a home or business by accessing a ramp.

disability elevators
Disability elevators are platforms for the physically challenged that use a mechanical device for lifting people up and down stairs. A person stands on the platform or sits in a wheelchair on the platform and is then lifted as the platform moves along a mounted rail.

handicap chair lifts
Handicap chair lifts are a mechanical device used for lifting people up and down stairs. A rail is mounted to the treads of the stairs and then a chair or platform is attached to the rail. A person sits on a chair or stands on a platform and is then lifted as the chair or platform moves along the rail.

Also known as: handicap lifts, home elevators, residential elevators, lifts for home, home lifts, wheelchair lifts for homes, wheelchair lifts

handicap ramp
A handicap ramp is a ramp built for physically challenged people that eliminate stairs or door thresholds, making a home or building more accessible for a wheelchair.

home elevator installation
Home elevator installation refers to the process of installing a home elevator system.

home elevator repair
Home elevator repair refers to the process of repairing an elevator that is in the home.

home lifts
Home lifts are a mechanical device used for lifting people up and down stairs. A rail is mounted to the treads of the stairs and then a chair or platform is attached to the rail. A person sits on a chair or stands on a platform and is then lifted as the chair or platform moves along the rail.

Also known as: home stair lifts, home elevators, stair lifts, home lifts for disabled, residentiall elevator

home ramp installation
Home ramp installation refers to the process of installing a ramp in a home. The purpose of a home ramp is to help the physically challenged access parts of the home that are impeded by stairways or door thresholds.

home ramp repair
Home ramp repair refers to the process of repairing a ramp built for a physically challenged person in a home.

outdoor stair lifts
An outdoor stair lift is a mechanical device used for lifting people up and down stairs that are built outside. A rail is mounted to the treads of the stairs and then a chair is attached to the rail. A person sits on a chair or stands on a platform and is then lifted as the chair or platform moves along the rail.

residential elevators
A residential elevator is an elevator built inside the home for the physically challenged. A person sits on a wheelchair or stands on the elevator and is then lifted as the elevator moves up or down in order to transport the individual without the use of stairs.

Also known as: home elevator, inclinator, chairlift, residential chair lift

residential lifts
Residential lifts are a mechanical device used for lifting people up and down stairs. A rail is mounted to the treads of the stairs and then a chair is attached to the rail. A person sits on a chair or stands on a platform and is then lifted as the chair or platform moves along the rail.

stair-lift installation
Stair lift installation is a reference to installing a stair lift in a residential home. A rail is mounted to the treads of the stairs and then a chair is attached to the rail. A person sits on a chair or stands on a platform and is then lifted as the chair or platform moves along the rail.

stair lift repairs
Stair lift repairs refers to repair a stair lift that has been installed in the home.

stair lifts
Stair lifts are a mechanical device used for lifting people up and down stairs. A rail is mounted to
the treads of the stairs and then a chair is attached to the rail. A person sits on a chair or stands on a platform and is then lifted as the chair or platform moves along the rail.

Also known as: wheelchair lifts, stair chair lifts

stair lift supplies
Stair lift supplies are the supplies needed in order to install a stair lift in the home. A rail is mounted to the treads of the stairs and then a chair is attached to the rail. A person sits on a chair or stands on a platform and is then lifted as the chair or platform moves along the rail.

wheelchair lifts
Wheelchair lifts are a mechanical devide used for lifting people up and down stairs. A rail is mounted to the treads of the stairs and then a platform is attached to the rail. A person sits on a wheelchair or stands on a platform and is then lifted as the platform moves along the rail.

wheelchair ramps
Wheelchair ramps are ramps designed for the physically challenged person that makes accessing a building or home more attainable. The ramp goes over a stairway or door threshold so that a wheelchair can more easily go over it.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ About Home Stair Lifts, Wheelchair Ramps and Home Mobility Equipment

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified home lifts and ramps company?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a home lifts and ramps company with confidence by offering a list of top-rated local companies who have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only home lifts and ramps companies rated Highest in Quality earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. So you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified home lifts and ramps company.

Q: Will a new stair lift fit on my stairs?
A: Typically a stairlift should be at least 30 inches wide and no more than 20 feet long. Your stair lift contractor will be able to tell you if the stair lift you're considering will work well with your home. If the chair lift you want isn't a good fit, ask the contractor to recommend a better fit.

Q: Are mobility stair lifts mounted to the wall?
A: Though many people think that stair lifts mount to the wall, they actually mount to the stairs. This protects your home from damage related to installation, and will enable the stair lift mechanism to be completely removed with no sign of installation when you no longer want or need it.

Q: What is a stairway lift?
A: It is a motorized lift that attaches to a staircase and carries a physically disabled person up and down the stairs. A moving chair is guided by a narrow track attached directly to the stairs?

Q: How much room is required to install a stairway lift?
A: Typically the track on a stair lift takes up less than ten inches of a staircase. When folded up, the unit uses less than 14 inches of space. If your staircase is less than 36 inches wide, it is recommended you sit the user in a chair that is up against a wall, and measure the distance from the wall to the users knees. Once this information is forwarded to the manufacturer, they can assist you with determining if you have enough room to use your lift properly.

Q: How much weight are stairway lifts typically capable of carrying?
A: A stairlift is generally rated at 300 pound capacity. It is designed to be used by one person at a time.

Q: How safe is are stairway lifts?
A: A stairlift comes designed with several features to assure the safety of the user. Safety sensors on the footrest stop the lift in either direction if it strikes anything on the stairs. A swivel safety switch ensures that the seat is in the proper position before allowing it to run. All lifts come with a seat belt. The aircraft cable stops the lift is the cable is not properly tensioned. And constant pressure controls are designed to stop the lift the moment controls are released.

Q: Can a stairlift interfere with a pacemaker?
A: No. Stairlifts are tested to ensure that the remote controls meet or exceed the FCC guidelines for safe RF emissions.

Q: If I purchase a stairlift off of the internet because it’s cheaper, am I getting a good deal?
A: Cheaper does not necessarily mean less expensive. A stairlift bought off of the Internet must be installed by you. There is no labor warranty, and often they are inferior products. Most reputable manufacturers sell through dealers as dealers can support the lift.

Q. What is the price of a stairlift?
A. The cost of a stair chair lift depends on many factors – is it a straight or curved stair way? Is the stairlift battery operated or a/c powered? Does the stairlift stop in front of a doorway at the bottom of the stairs? Do you need a power folding rail? Or do you want the chair lift to turn the corner at the top and/or bottom so it's out of the way of the stairs when it's parked. Are you looking for a plain basic chair lift with standard features, or do you want a high end stair lift with custom upholstery and automatic folding options? The answer to these and many more questions will help determine which stair lift is best for you, your home and your budget.

Q. How do I know if my staircase is wide enough to fit a stairlift?
A. If your stairs are 32 inches or wider, you shouldn’t have a problem with a standard stairlift. Narrower stairlifts can be done but they can be awkward for the user as it is more difficult to turn your legs when sitting on one. Before purchasing a stairlift, you will need to have a home evaluation that determines the safety of the installation for the person who will be using the stairlift.

Q. I live in a split level house. Will a stair lift work in my home?
A. Yes, it's possible to install a stairway lift in a split level home; however, this can be challenging. Because there are several options to consider, you will want to talk to a qualified lift specialist before making a final purchase.

Q. Can a stair lift be installed outside?
A. Yes. But you might want to consider the weather of the area you reside in. This is something you should discuss with the home stair lift contractor in detail.

Q. What happens during a power outage?
A. Some stair lifts operate on a Battery Operated System (BOS), so they will work for a limited time. An A/C operated system will not operate during a power outage.

Q. Can I rent a stair lift?
A. Yes. Many home lifts and ramps companies rent stair lifts. This is especially helpful for individuals who only need their residential stair lift for a short time; for example, to allow mobility after surgery, a broken leg or hip, etc.

Q. How far do most home stair lifts stick out from the wall?
A. Though this depends on the stair lift, the average stair lift sticks out about 24 inches when in the riding position and 13 inches when folded up against the wall. Your stair lift installation technician will be able to assist you in deciding what chair lift is best for your home and whether it will impede foot traffic.

Q. Will others still be able to walk up the stairs once the home lift is installed?
A. The seat, arms and footrest on the stairlift all fold up, leaving your stairs free for others to use.

Q. How will I know which stair lift is best for me and my home?
A. Most home lifts and ramps companies have qualified Accessibility Specialists who will perform a site evaluation to suggest the best options for your needs and location.

Q. How are home stair lifts installed on the stairs?
A. Bolts are installed directly into the treads approximately every three to four feet. These hold the brackets to keep the stair lift secure.

Q. Will it harm the chair lift if the batteries are over charged?
A. Most battery chargers do not allow the batteries to over charge.

Q. Do batteries and chargers come with new stair lifts?
A. Yes, they do if the stair lift is battery operated.

Q. Can the speed be adjusted on a stairway lift?
A. Most stair lifts have a fixed design and code. But some stairlifts do have the ability to change the speed.

Q. Can I store my stairlift for extended periods of non-use?
A. Storage procedures can vary substantially depending on the model of stairlift. Be sure to talk to your service provider regarding complete details on properly storing your chair lift.

Q. Can a stair lift handle any stair way configuration?
A. There is a make and model stairlift that will fit just about any type of stairway configuration. Most staircases are either straight, have a middle landing, or are curved. In some cases, a customer who has a middle landing can install two straight stair lifts; one lift on the first set of stairs and the other lift on the second set of stairs. Often times this is a far less expensive option than having a curved stair lift installed. Remember that the person who uses the lift must be able to transfer from one lift to other at the middle landing in order to use the two lift option.

Q. Do I need to do anything special to prepare the home for a stair lift?
A. Only if you don't have an electrical outlet to support the operation of the stair lift. In this case, you would need an electrician to install an outlet before the stair lift is installed. In some situations, the hand rail may need to be removed if it obstructs the operation of the stair lift.

Q. How will the stair lift look in my home?
A. You can usually choose from a wide variety of colors and fabrics. Upholstery options include vinyl and fabric. Chair and track colors can be chosen to blend with most home décors.

Q. Are stair lifts easy to care for?
A. Yes. Stairlifts are designed to typically last for many years. Most stair lifts come with a manufacturer's warranty. However, the length of warranty can vary depending on the make and model of stairlift you purchase.

Q. Does my electric stair lift need to be serviced on a regular basis and if so how often?
A. It is HIGHLY recommended that a chairlift be serviced at least once per year. Not only does regular maintenance help prevent expensive emergency service calls, but it is mandated by the ASME handicap lift code. All stairway lifts are designed with a series of safety mechanisms. The safety mechanisms need to be tested on a regular basis. As with any mechanical part, these safety mechanisms can wear over time and must be evaluated on a regularly.

Q. How long does it take to install a stair lift? How disruptive is it?
A. Most straight stairway lifts can be installed in three to four hours. Most factory trained technicians are very professional and efficient.

Q. How long do stair lift batteries typically last?
A. Most batteries last about three years. But some have lasted over five years.

Q. Why is adjustable seat height such a popular feature of new residential chair lifts?
A. When it comes to a proper seat height, one size does not fit all. Being able to adjust the seat height on a stairway lift can greatly improve the safety and comfort of the ride. Not all models

Q. Can I lock the stair-lift to avoid misuse from others?
A. Some stair lifts have an on/off key that allows you to control who is able to use the stair lift. Remember that chairlifts can be very attractive to small children, and even though they are extremely safe, no equipment should be used without adult supervision.